A dual battery system in a 4×4 is very handy, especially if you like running accessories from your 4×4 when camping and in particular if you run a compressor fridge in the back. The idea of a dual battery system is to have all (or most) of your accessories connected to the second battery (usually a deep cycle). As your accessories use power from the second battery the isolator prevents power from draining from your main starting battery leaving it ready for you to start your vehicle when needed. When you start your vehicle the isolator senses the charge from your alternator and links the 2 batteries together and charges them as you drive
There are a few ways the second battery can be wired into the vehicle, depending on its intended use and the system flexibility required. But no matter what, the second battery must be installed and wired – in the engine bay, the passenger compartment or load area – so that it can be isolated and doesn’t flatten the vehicle’s starter battery.
To try simply and quite complicated topic, there are generally two types of dual battery / charging management systems. The first, older type uses some form of switching relay to isolate and switch between batteries via either a manual switch, or some pre-determined voltage threshold. The second, more modern version, being a DC to DC battery charger.
DC TO DC CHARGER
The new Ironman 4×4 DC to DC 40amp boost, 3 stage battery charger. With the new generation of vehicles it is important to ensure that auxilary battery charging is managed in a way to maximize the charge. The Ironman 4×4 DC to DC 40 amps chargers uses the latest generation technology producing more power in a much smaller compact unit. The DC to DC charger is able to cope with under bonnet heat, vibration and has a unique heat sink to maximize cooling and maximize efficiencies. This DC to DC charger is encapsulated in a weatherproof polymer.
The Ironman 4×4 DC to DC charger has a remote dash mounted LED to indicate charge status. A fantastic feature is the selectable battery selection with the ability to charge all types of batteries, including FLOODED, AGM, GEL and Lithium. This charger is designed to manage and maximize the charge to your batteries.
Using the boost technology the DC to DC charger boosts the voltage to ensure the batteries are maintained at 100%, making it better for battery life. The boost technology automatically senses for all low voltage alternators, camper trailers, long cable that may incur voltage drops and batteries requiring a high charge.
- 3-stage 12V Booster Charger
- 40A max output
- Selectable output voltages
- Over current and temp protected
- Precise under voltage protection (No external isolator required)
- High efficiency (Typical >96%)
- Remote charge status LED indicator
- Very low standby current <3mA
- Optional start assist and boost charge features increase amperage output to 80A max
140A DUAL BATTERY MANAGER
The Ironman 140 Amp Dual Battery Kit allows two batteries to be charged at the same time. When the engine is started and the main battery reaches 13.4 volts, the Ironman module engages, allowing the two batteries to be charged simultaneously.
The Ironman dual battery monitor displays the voltage levels of both batteries. The Ironman 140 Amp Dual Battery Kit eliminates the possibility of draining the starting battery, as long as your accessories are connected to your auxiliary battery.When the voltage drops below 12.8 volts (e.g. the engine is stopped), the Ironman module disengages, isolating the batteries.
Features:
- Dual sensing
- Automatic function
- Cut in when main battery above 13.4V
- Isolates main battery below 12.8V
- Ignition protection
- All hardware included
- Monitor dims with headlights on
- Fully sealed
- Easy to install
275A DUAL BATTERY MANAGER
A dual battery manager is a must-have addition for any 4 wheel driver who loves the great outdoors and wishes to camp in comfort with good lights, a fridge, music and any number of accessories running on a dual battery system.
The Ironman 275 Amp Dual Battery monitor allows two batteries to be charged at the same time, once the main battery reaches 13.4 volts. This ensures that your cranking battery is always at full capacity. It is supplied with a dual battery monitor which displays the voltage levels of both batteries. This dual battery manager allow you to run accessories from a second battery to save your starting/cranking battery.
Emergency Parallel Function:
The Ironman 275 Amp Dual Battery manager allows the user to override the automatic function and link the two batteries together. This can be done by turning the yellow knob on the unit or by pushing the override switch located in the vehicle.
Features:
- High Amperage capacity
- Dual sensing
- Automatic function
- Cut in when main battery above 13.7V
- Isolates main battery below 12.2V
- Dual manual override
- Additional override switch
- Ignition protection
- Monitor dims with headlights on
- Easy to install
DUAL BATTERY MONITOR
The Ironman dual battery monitor displays the voltage levels of both batteries.
START ASSIST BOOSTER KIT
This start assist kit allows you to start your vehicle off the auxiliary battery in a situation where the main battery is flat (e.g. headlights were left on).
When combined with our 40A DC to DC battery charger, the maximum output increases up to 80amps, doubling the total amperage.
- Automatic emergency vehicle start.
- Boosts DC to DC charger output to 80amps
- Start Assist – The Start Assist Booster Kit when used in conjunction with the Ironman 4×4 IDCDC40, is an automatic emergency override function allowing the vehicle to start utilising the auxiliary battery in situations where the main battery is flat.
- Boost Charge – This kit will also double the 40amp output of the Ironman 4×4 IDCDC40. Allowing up to 80amps for the initial fast charge of the auxiliary battery.
Due to the custom and unique nature of 4×4 vehicles and different requirements for dual battery setups, there is no “one price fits all” guide, so please call us today for a quote for your vehicle.
